A Living Institution - Heinold's First & Last Chance

Amongst its many other charms, the Bay Area is full of living legends in the form of restaurants, markets and bars. My favorite of these in Heinold's First & Last Chance Saloon in Oakland's Jack London Square.

Heinold's has been open and in the same location since 1883. Back in the 1920s, the commuter ferry between Oakland and Alameda stopped right in front of the saloon and, since Alameda was a dry county, Heinold's truly became the mens' "First and Last Chance" for a libation.

Heinold's is also known as "Jack London's Rendezvous", in honor of its most famous regular. In fact, The First & Last Chance is referenced at least 17 times in London's novel John Barleycorn.

Of course, the first thing you notice when you walk in is the extremely pitched bar and floor--something like 20 degrees. When the Big Quake in 1906 struck, the pilings under the bar shifted, and no amount of effort could get the floors even again without damaging the whole structure.

My favorite way to enjoy Heinold's is on Sundays like today. Head over to the Jack London Square Farmer's Market and make your way to the Afghani stand. Pick up a Spinach Bowlani, a tub of Garlic Cheese and a jar of Spicy Carrot preserves. Secure an outside table at Heinolds, head inside, and order a your beers from Jim (Newcastle is particularly complimentary).

Of course, if Afghan food isn't your thing, you can also choose from DiBrova sausages, Donna's Tamales and more. Really, is there any kind of street food that doesn't go with good beer on a hot day?

It's truly a blessing to have a place like Heinold's in our backyard. Why not make a day of visiting this historic bar, the Farmer's Market, and the gorgeous waterfront surrounding it?

Heinold's First & Last Chance Saloon
48 Webster Street (at Water Street)
Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 839-6761*

*Don't be surprised if the phone doesn't get answered. It's all at the whim of the barkeep.

The Wine's Life Series will be back on June 19th